Video games are receiving undue criticism following the World Health Organisation’s classification of gaming addiction as a disorder. This viewpoint is shared by Lottie Bevan, a game developer and co-founder of an independent games studio.
Bevan asserts that, when enjoyed in moderation, video games can be beneficial. She acknowledged to a media outlet that the controversy surrounding gaming addiction is often exaggerated for sensationalist purposes. Bevan stated, ‘We’re not inventing the bomb here – we’re inventing ways to entertain people and maintain attention.’
Bevan expressed scepticism about the existence of gaming addiction, noting that she has not encountered instances where individuals struggle to detach themselves from gaming unless underlying personal issues are present. Co-founding a narrative-focused studio in London, Bevan’s first game, released in May, underscores her belief that gaming can be a positive aspect of life, especially for children when managed responsibly by parents.
Bevan dismissed the notion that excessive gaming leads to adverse effects on children, suggesting instead that the responsibility lies with parents and society. She remarked, ‘Gaming is perfectly healthy and it’s actually very creative and fulfilling to allow children to play with lots of different games.’ Highlighting her own experience, Bevan admitted to spending considerable time on screens yet feels content and well-balanced by maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
According to Bevan, gaming represents a modern way to tell stories, offering engagement through multiple decisions in a manner traditional linear narratives cannot. This evolving medium promises to integrate further into daily life, with diverse roles ranging from voice actors to coders contributing to its development. Bevan confidently stated, ‘Gaming is our future… I do think games will change the world.’
She predicts that technologies such as augmented reality will become more prevalent, enhancing real-world experiences through gaming. She envisions applications where wearable tech could provide seamless translation services, illustrating the transformative potential of gaming technology. Despite acknowledging certain dystopian fears, Bevan remains optimistic about the industry’s future, emphasising the importance of responsible usage.
Gaming, when approached sensibly, offers substantial benefits and promises to be an integral part of future societal advancements, according to Lottie Bevan’s forward-thinking perspective.